Discovery Channel to Air Documentary Honoring Avalanche Victims

The Discovery Channel will broadcast the 90-min documentary, "Everest Avalanche Tragedy," as a tribute to all the Sherpas and their families affected by the recent Mt. Everest avalanche.

On April 18, members of an NBC News crew were located at an Everest base camp to prepare for the Discovery live special "Everest Jump Live" when the deadliest single-day avalanche hit, killing 13 sherpa guides. (The live event has since been canceled).

"We were at Mt. Everest to make history, but instead we were there as eyewitnesses to history," said Eileen O'Neill, group president, Discovery, Science and Velocity Networks. "It is essential to tell this story and honor all the Sherpas who lost their lives."

The doc will include real time footage and eyewitness accounts from the rescue and recovery efforts that took place after the avalanche struck.

Viewers will hear from those who experienced this tragedy and aftermath, including an interview with climber Joby Ogwyn, who would have been featured in "Everest Jump Live" by attempting to make the first wing suit flight off the Everest summit.

Expedition leader Garrett Madison, who played a critical role in the recovery and Todd Burleson, president of Alpine Ascents International that lost five Sherpas, will also be featured in the doc.

"Everest Avalanche Tragedy," produced by NBC News' Peacock Productions, will air at 9 p.m. May 4 and in 224 countries.

Discovery will be contributing to the American Himalayan Foundation Sherpa Family Fund, which gives 100 percent of all donations to help families of the deceased.